A Life Story

Bradley Austin VenHuizen It is with profound sadness, and immense gratitude for a well lived life, that we announce the passing of Bradley Austin VenHuizen on July 4, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on December 19, 1944, in Hannaford, North Dakota, Brad lived a life defined by faith, family, friendship, service, and a genuine love for people. Brad carried his Norwegian roots proudly throughout his life. He loved sharing family stories, celebrating his heritage, and never missed an opportunity to slip an Ole and Lena joke into the conversation. The values of humility, hard work, kindness, and faith, remained the foundation of his character throughout his life. Education and curiosity led Brad to a professional career that included serving as a professor, attorney, and strategic leader within the insurance industry. He was respected for his intelligence, integrity, thoughtful guidance, and willingness to help others. But those who knew Brad best will remember not what he did, but how he lived. Faith was at the center of his life. Brad believed deeply in doing God's work with his hands through acts of service, encouragement, friendship, and community building. Throughout the many places he called home, including North Dakota, British Columbia, Oregon, Washington, San Francisco Bay Area, Omaha, Mesa, and Savannah, he helped build vibrant faith communities, launching men's fellowship groups, singing in the church choir, cultivating meaningful friendships, and creating spaces where people could grow together in faith. Brad also loved adventure and treasured the opportunity to see the country he loved. Together, Brad and Randi visited all 50 states, explored national parks, sailed on numerous cruises, and embarked on countless road trips to reconnect with friends and family across the country. For Brad, travel was never just about the destination. It was about the people, the memories, and the experiences shared with Randi and their friends along the way. Family was his greatest joy. When Brad married Randi, he often said that one of life's greatest blessings was gaining a larger family. His grandchildren brought him endless pride and happiness, and he treasured every opportunity to create memories with them. No gathering with Brad would have been complete without a game. He loved puzzles, cards, board games, and friendly competition. Family members will fondly remember spirited games of whist taken with utmost seriousness. Those who knew Brad will remember his wisdom, humor, quiet strength, generosity, unwavering faith, and remarkable ability to make people feel valued and loved. Most of all, they will remember how faithfully he showed up for the people who mattered most. Brad’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, wisdom, and unconditional love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Randi VenHuizen and son Jason VenHuizen (wife Danielle and grandsons Soren & Theron) stepdaughter Erina Kadimi (husband Karim), stepson Patrick Christian (wife Laura and grandchildren Jetter & Ruby), stepson Matthew Christian (grandson Giles), his sister Linda Madson and brother-in-law Dave and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother Valborg Thompson and father Ray VenHuizen. A celebration of life will be held in late September at Messiah Lutheran Church in Savannah, GA, where family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate his life and share memories of the remarkable man Brad was. As Brad would say “This reminds me of the time Ole asked Lena whether there would be card games in heaven. Lena replied, "Of course, Ole. The only question is whether you're finally going to learn how to play whist properly!”